What is drought-resilient agricultural technology?

Drought-resilient agricultural technology refers to innovations that help farms produce food with less water. This includes specialized seeds that need less moisture, precision irrigation systems that deliver water exactly where and when plants need it, soil additives that improve water retention, and smart farm equipment that monitors and optimizes water usage. These technologies are becoming increasingly important as climate change makes water scarcity more common worldwide.

Why are drought-resilient technologies becoming more important?

Climate change is causing more frequent and severe droughts in many agricultural regions around the world. At the same time, the global population continues to grow, increasing demand for food. This combination makes water-efficient farming not just environmentally beneficial but economically necessary. Farmers are increasingly adopting these technologies to maintain productivity and profitability despite water challenges.

What are precision irrigation systems?

Precision irrigation systems are advanced technologies that deliver water directly to plant roots in precisely controlled amounts. Unlike traditional flood irrigation that wastes significant water, these systems use sensors, weather data, and computer controls to provide exactly what crops need, when they need it. Companies like Valmont Industries (VMI) and Lindsay Corporation (LNN) specialize in these systems, which can reduce water usage by 30-70% while maintaining or improving crop yields.

How do drought-tolerant seeds work?

Drought-tolerant seeds are developed through selective breeding or genetic modification to thrive with less water. They may have traits like deeper root systems to access water further in the soil, improved cell structures that lose less water to evaporation, or modified growing cycles that avoid the driest seasons. Companies like Corteva (CTVA) and Bioceres (BIOX) develop these specialized seeds, which can maintain yields with significantly less rainfall than conventional varieties.

What role do fertilizers play in drought resilience?

Specialized fertilizers and soil nutrients can significantly improve a plant's ability to withstand drought conditions. They work by strengthening root systems, improving soil structure to retain more water, and enhancing the plant's natural ability to manage water stress. Companies like Mosaic (MOS), Nutrien (NTR), and Intrepid Potash (IPI) produce fertilizers that help crops make more efficient use of available water, which becomes increasingly critical during drought conditions.

15 handpicked stocks

Drought-Resilient Agri Tech

These carefully selected companies are pioneering essential technologies that help agriculture thrive even as water becomes scarce. They represent the innovation frontier in feeding our growing world amid changing climate conditions, chosen by expert analysts for their potential and impact.

Han Tan | Market Analyst

Updated 2 days ago | Published at juin 17